The StoryHome is aimed at helping families to connect via storytelling. it allows family members to share stories with each other wherever they are in the world. If a grandparent records a story on one StoryHome device, it can be relayed to their grandkids as a bedtime story on another.
The StoryHome is shaped like a Russian doll and measures 145 x 88 mm (5.7 x 3.5 in). It comes with a dock into which it can be placed to charge and to connect to the internet. The device connects to internet via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, with the latter being set up using the accompanying StoryHome mobile app.
It is powered by an ARM processor and records stories to its in-built Flash memory. An integrated battery provides 4 hours of audio playback time and several days of standby time.
Once set up, the StoryHome is simple to use. To begin telling a story, a user presses the relevant button once and then once again when the story is complete. Individuals can record anything they really want, such as their own stories, songs from their childhoods, answers to various life questions that are provided or responses to questions from family members.
Once a story is recorded, it is backed up to the StoryHome cloud and sent to paired devices. Users can access the cloud via the web and from there can edit and organize recorded stories, share stories and manage their account.
When a story is received on a device, users are notified by a glowing light-ring. To listen to the story, they need only press the play button. It's possible to pause and continue playing the story and to skip through other saved stories as well.
The is no screen on the StoryHome, the light from which could adversely affect a person's sleep if used before bedtime. The lack of a screen coupled with audio-only nature of the device helps to avoid any distractions from the storytelling focus too.
A Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign has been launched for the StoryHome. At the time of writing, pledges from US$129 are available for one of the devices. If all goes to plan, shipping is expected to start in February 2016.
The video below is the Kickstarter pitch for the video.
Sources: StoryHome, Kickstarter
